A few days ago, the Edmonton Oilers remained relatively untouched by injury; today, they are facing some very difficult choices in terms of roster makup for the next two months or more. Faceoffs, penalty-kill, the powerplay, evens. This has an impact on everything.

Nothing to be upset about after tonight's game local Ice Hockey Squadron. A shootout that lasted longer than some modern wars, coming back from a 3rd period deficit and letting the announcer at RX1 yell "Have-ee-BOOOOOOOO-lin" at least two dozen times in the shootout.

The Oilers have had an extra bounce in their step at practice the past few days, and considering they are the second hottest team in the league, (Pittsburgh has won ten straight, the Oilers four) it is easy to see why. The Oilers have shown flashes of brilliance lately, and they've excited some Oiler fans. We will find out in the next five home games if it was just a tease, or in fact, a full on display of their assets.

Tom Renney announced that Ales Hemsky could be out up to a month with a groin problem, and he will meet with Steve Tambellini to discuss if they will call up a player, or if they will go with the current roster.

Linus Omark and Liam Reddox would seem like the most likely call ups, and when I spoke briefly with Steve Tambellini he said they will look at it closer and decide this week.